Here is the story of our amazing day out...

and the secret pictures 'they' didn't want you to see!

Seb and Sev Rees experienced the most amazing day out on Thursday 13th July 2006 when invited to attend the enchanting Buckingham Palace Garden Party to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme.

Seb, a D of E Gold Award holder, has been involved in The Award since 1993 and currently works in his spare time as a qualified team-leader for a Silver group in Colchester.

Sev is currently training as an assistant leader also at the same Open Award Centre.

After arriving at Buckingham Palace on the kind invitation of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip The Duke of Edinburgh and the Earl and Countess of Wessex we were ushered through the palace and out onto the terrace.

Over looking the expanse of beautiful gardens basking in the summer sun we took in with awe the spectacle of 8500 ladies and gentlement in suits, posh frocks and hats.

After 'being presented' to our celebrity host (Bill Turnbull from BBC breakfast) we mingled with the crowds and were fortunate enough to talk with some very affable celebrities including the enchanting Helena Bonham-Carter and her jovial partner Tim Burton, Adam Hart-Davis, Chris Tarrant, Lynford Christie, John Conteh and the suitably mountain experienced Brian Blessed... who was in FULL voice!

With superb good fortune Seb was approached and spoke with both Prince Philip and Prince Edward.

Hospitality was perfect with delightful afternoon tea including... not to disappoint... cucumber sandwiches!

To find out more about the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme and the amazing way in which this programme can change young lives visit www.theaward.org

Perhaps, as with Travel Services, you or your staff could benefit from the training and personal development opportunities The Award offers.

Please feel free to contact Seb if you would like to talk about The Award as he is someone with extensive first hand experience.

 Long live The Award! and thank you for the opportunities you have given to us.